9 Ways to Be Remembered as a Real Class Act When You Leave Your Job

Giving your two weeks notice takes a lot of courage, but that’s only half of the battle. Once you’ve told your team you’re leaving, it can be hard to stay focused on your work, play nice with co-workers, and prepare to hand your job off to someone else when you’ve got one foot out the door.

However, leaving your position with class is crucial to whatever your next career move is, and these strategies will help you do it.

When breaking the news to your co-workers, it’s important to keep it simple: There’s no reason to air your dirty laundry or tell them why your new company is better than your current one. (Global Post)

It’s an important step that people typically forget: Be sure to let your clients know that you’re leaving to make the transition smoother. (Diane Gottsman)

Since someone will most likely be coming in to take your job, be sure to consider onboarding materials so that he or she has an idea of what to expect. In other words, throw the next person a bone here. (Entrepreneur)

Keep your social media presence clean. Don’t trash talk your company or co-workers, and also be aware that your new employers are most likely watching, too. (The Huffington Post)

You’ll probably be asked to give an exit interview, and it’s important to give helpful answers and not throw anyone (or the company) under the bus. (Business Insider)

You should focus on getting your work done even though you’re leaving soon. However, if you really feel the urge to slack off, here are some tips for not getting caught by your boss. (Lifehacker)

Pass on your wisdom to a younger employee. Mentoring is always a great thing, and you want a little good karma on your side. (Forbes)

No matter how you felt about your boss, employees, or colleagues, leave on a classy note and show gratitude. Even a simple thank you note works. (Tiny Buddha)

Lily is a writer, editor, and social media manager, as well as co-founder of The Prospect, the world’s largest student-run college access organization. In addition to her writing with The Muse, she also serves as an editor at HelloFlo and Her Campus. Recently, she was named one of Glamour’s Top 10 College Women for her work helping underserved youth get into college. You can follow Lily on Twitter.

Meet The Author

Lily is a writer, editor, and social media manager, as well as co-founder of The Prospect, the world’s largest student-run college access organization. In addition to her writing with The Muse, she also serves as an editor at HelloFlo and Her Campus. Recently, she was named one of Glamour’s Top 10 College Women for her work helping underserved youth get into college. You can follow Lily on Twitter.